You see, among teenagers mostly, there's an increasing dissatisfaction in one's appearance. Thus, it is not uncommon to find people of this class seek to have a muscular body of a star athlete or the lean figure of a super model. Others too take sport more serious and want to improve in strength and speed. But these are not goals to be condemned! Right? However, eager to achieve these quickly, some have been tempted to take 'promising' pills and portions.
Anabolic Steriods- what are they and what do they do?
These pills and portions, which are performance- boosting drugs are generally known as anabolic steroids. They are synthetic substances related to the androgens, i.e, the male sex hormones. Majorly, they promote the growth of skeletal muscles (anabolic effects) and the development of male sexual characteristics- US Department of Health and Human Services.
Synthetic steroids were first developed in the 1930s to treat males who failed to produce enough of these hormones naturally. Today steroids are used to counteract the depreciation of the body caused by deadly diseases like HIV. However, steroids have found a market among those who do not have legitimate medical needs. In 1950s, steroids became available on the black market, and ambitious athletes began tapping the performance-boosting potential of these drugs.
The rise in steroid abuse- why?
A popular reason is that is has become a shortcut for athletes who want to gain quick fame and a huge reward. Hence, the reoccurring incidence of bans by sporting authorities on athletes found culpable. Also, young people especially are conscious, more than ever, of their physical performance and appearance...and steroids, with disguised dangers, present a sure bet. To these ones, it offers a fashionably muscular body for one to hide self-doubt and to gain acceptability by peer and "neighbourhood".
The females are not left out, they too have fallen to the lure of steroids. Some female athletes take steroids to be faster and stronger on the sport field, others for additional strength in military formations for instance. Most, though, still take steroids with the hope of having their bodies transformed into the figures flaunted by movie stars and super models.
Are there Dangers of Steroids?
These facts are worth considering:
●One who takes steroids for even a short while increases the risks of heart attack, liver and kidney failure, and serious psychiatric problems.
●Males who take steroids might develop breasts and their testicle may start to atrophy.
●Females who take steroids are at greater risk of developing menstrual abnormalities, deeper voice, increased growth of body hair.
●In both males and females, the use of steroids makes one prone to the outburst of rage and aggressiveness, and if taken during adolescent, it ironically can stunt growth.
The Resolve? Steroids are harmful. We want to avoid exertion and dangerous competitions. We want to stay generally safe. We deserve a good life.